When the exterior trim on a car starts looking tired, it’s usually the kind of thing you notice every time you walk up to the vehicle. For owners of the 2014–2018 Kia Soul, the windshield pillar trim—those plastic pieces running along the sides of the windshield—can fade, crack, or even loosen over time. The TTUN AUTO replacement pair (part numbers 86170-B2000 and 86180-B2000) is aimed squarely at that problem, offering a direct-fit solution without the dealership markup. After spending time with these pieces, here’s how they hold up in real-world use.
Installation is straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic hand tools. The trim attaches via a few clips and screws, and the process takes about 30 minutes if you’re careful. The parts are molded from black ABS plastic, which matches the factory texture reasonably well. They’re not flimsy, but they’re not overly thick either—they feel comparable to what came off the car. One thing to note: the pieces arrive without any adhesive backing, so you’ll rely on the existing clips and a firm push to seat them properly. If your original clips are worn, you might want to order new ones separately, as the trim doesn’t include them.
Visually, the fit is decent but not flawless. The gap between the trim and the windshield is consistent on both sides, and the contour follows the roofline accurately. However, the paint finish (if you opt for a color-matched version) is where you might notice a slight mismatch under direct sunlight. The texture is more matte than the factory gloss, which can be a giveaway if you’re parked next to an identical Soul. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth knowing if you’re particular about OEM appearance.
In terms of function, these trims do their job—they cover the exposed pillar area, reduce wind noise at highway speeds, and keep water from pooling around the base of the windshield. The plastic is UV-stabilized, so it shouldn’t fade as quickly as some aftermarket pieces I’ve seen. That said, I’d temper expectations on long-term durability. After a few months of exposure to sun and rain, the surface still looks fine, but the clips feel slightly less snug than on day one. It’s nothing that would cause the trim to fall off, but it’s a reminder that aftermarket parts rarely match the longevity of original equipment.
Compared to buying OEM replacements from a dealer, this pair is significantly cheaper—often half the price or less. The trade-off is that you’re getting a generic brand with less rigorous quality control. The molding is clean, but there’s a subtle seam line on the inside edge that you won’t see once installed, so it’s not a functional issue. If you’re shopping for a budget option, this is a solid middle ground. It’s also worth noting that some owners have used similar trims on older Souls as a cosmetic upgrade, but this specific model is only guaranteed for the 2014–2018 generation.
Who is this for? If you’re a DIY owner who wants to fix a cracked or faded pillar trim without spending a fortune, this is a practical choice. It’s also suitable for someone who needs a quick replacement before selling the car and wants to improve its appearance without a full detailing job. On the other hand, if you’re a perfectionist who demands an exact OEM match in texture and finish, or if you’re working on a car that’s still under warranty, you might be better off with factory parts. Similarly, if you live in an area with extreme temperature swings, the plastic might contract and expand more noticeably than the original, leading to minor rattles over time.
One limitation that stands out is the lack of any installation guide in the box. The listing mentions basic fitment, but there are no instructions, torque specs, or clip alignment diagrams. For a novice, this could turn a simple job into a frustrating guessing game. I’d recommend watching a YouTube video or two before starting. Also, the packaging is minimal—just a plastic bag and a cardboard sleeve—so there’s a small risk of damage in transit, though mine arrived unscathed.
Overall, the TTUN AUTO pillar trim pair is a functional, cost-effective fix for a common issue on the Kia Soul. It won’t win any awards for perfection, but it does what it promises: restores the look of the windshield area without breaking the bank. If you’re handy with a screwdriver and don’t mind a slightly different sheen, it’s worth considering. Just go in with realistic expectations about fit and finish, and you’ll likely be satisfied.